Black History Month is an annual observance that provides an opportunity to celebrate and honor African Americans’ achievements, contributions, and resilience throughout history. It is a time to delve into the rich tapestry of black culture, highlighting the trailblazers, visionaries, and unsung heroes who have shaped our world. This month-long commemoration serves as a reminder of the struggles endured and progress made while inspiring future generations to continue the pursuit of equality and justice.

For students, Black History Month offers a unique chance to explore African Americans’ diverse experiences and stories. By engaging in meaningful activities, young learners can develop a deeper understanding of the challenges black individuals and communities face and appreciate their extraordinary triumphs. These activities foster empathy and cultural awareness and encourage critical thinking, creativity, and social responsibility.

This article will explore a range of inspiring Black History Month activities specifically designed for students. From interactive projects to thought-provoking discussions and artistic expressions, these activities will ignite curiosity, spark meaningful conversations, and inspire young minds to make a positive difference in their communities. So, whether you are an educator, a parent, or a student eager to delve into the remarkable stories of African Americans, continue reading to discover engaging and enlightening activities that will enhance your Black History Month experience. Let us celebrate the past, embrace the present, and empower the future together.

10 Black History Activity Ideas

Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans to the history and culture of the United States. It is also a time to educate and inspire young people to learn more about black people’s rich and diverse heritage. 

Here are ten activity ideas you can use in your classroom or home to explore black history with your students or children.

1. Watch a documentary or movie about Black History

Many documentaries and movies explore different aspects of Black history, from slavery and civil rights to music and sports. Some examples are:

• 13th: A documentary that examines the history of racial inequality and mass incarceration in the United States.
• Hidden Figures: A movie about three Black women who worked as mathematicians at NASA during the 1960s.
• Selma: A movie that depicts the 1965 voting rights marches led by Martin Luther King Jr. and other activists in Alabama.
• The Black Power Mixtape 1967-1975: A documentary that features interviews and footage of prominent figures of the Black Power movement, such as Angela Davis, Stokely Carmichael, and Huey P. Newton.

2. Read a book or article by a Black author

Reading is a great way to learn from the perspectives and experiences of Black writers, who have produced a rich and diverse body of literature. You can choose from various genres and topics, such as fiction, poetry, memoir, history, science, or social justice. Some examples are:

• The Hate U Give: A novel by Angie Thomas follows a teenage girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her friend by a police officer.
• Between the World and Me: A letter by Ta-Nehisi Coates to his son that explores the realities of being Black in America.
• I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings: A memoir by Maya Angelou recounts her childhood and adolescence in the segregated South.
• The New Jim Crow: A book by Michelle Alexander that exposes racial discrimination and injustice in the criminal justice system.

3. Listen to a podcast or music playlist about Black History

Podcasts and music playlists are another way to immerse yourself in the stories and sounds of Black history. You can listen to interviews, discussions, analyses, or performances that cover various aspects of Black culture and history. Some examples are:

• 1619: A podcast by The New York Times that examines the legacy of slavery and its impact on American society.
• Code Switch: A podcast by NPR that explores how race and identity shape every part of our lives.
• Still Processing: A New York Times podcast featuring two culture writers who talk about art, politics, and culture through a Black lens.
• Songs of Freedom: A music playlist by Spotify that features songs from different eras and genres that celebrate Black liberation and resistance.

4. Visit a museum or historical site related to Black History

Museums and historical sites are places where you can see and learn about the artifacts and events that shaped Black history. You can visit local or national museums or historical sites that showcase African Americans’ achievements, struggles, and contributions. Some examples are:

• National Museum of African American History and Culture: A museum in Washington, D.C., that displays the history and culture of African Americans from slavery to the present day.
• Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park: A park in Atlanta that preserves the birthplace, home, church, and tomb of Martin Luther King Jr., as well as other landmarks related to his life and work.
• Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park: A park in Maryland commemorates the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman, who escaped slavery and helped hundreds of others do the same through the Underground Railroad.
• Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site: A site in Alabama that honors the first African American military pilots who fought in World War II.

5. Create a collage or poster about Black History

Creating a collage or poster is a creative way to express your appreciation and understanding of Black history. You can use images, words, symbols, or colors representing different aspects of Black history that you want to highlight or celebrate. You can also include quotes or facts that inspire you or educate others. Some examples are:

• A collage or poster that features images of influential Black leaders, activists, artists, athletes, or inventors.
• A collage or poster that depicts important events or movements in Black history, such as the Civil War, the Harlem Renaissance, the Civil Rights Movement, or the Black Lives Matter Movement.
• A collage or poster that showcases different aspects of Black culture, such as music, dance, fashion, food, or language.

6. Write a poem or essay about Black History

Writing a poem or essay is another way to express your thoughts and feelings about Black history. You can write about a person, event, or issue that you find interesting or important in Black history. You can also write about your experiences or opinions as a Black person or an ally. Some examples are:

• A poem or essay that pays tribute to a Black hero or heroine who inspired you or made a difference in the world.
• A poem or essay that explores a challenge or injustice that Black people have faced or continue to face in America.
• A poem or essay that celebrates the success or achievement that Black people have accomplished or contributed to society.

7. Make a timeline or map of Black History

Making a timeline or map is a way to visualize and organize the information and events that make up Black history. You can use a paper, poster, or digital tool to create a timeline or map that shows the chronological order or geographical location of different aspects of Black history. You can also add images, dates, names, or descriptions to make it more informative and engaging. Some examples are:

• A timeline or map that traces the origins and routes of the transatlantic slave trade and its impact on Africa and the Americas.
• A timeline or map that shows the significant milestones and landmarks of the Civil Rights Movement and its leaders and participants.
• A timeline or map highlighting the achievements and innovations of Black scientists, inventors, entrepreneurs, or educators.

8. Play a game or trivia about Black History

Playing a game or trivia is fun to test your knowledge and learn new facts about Black history. You can play with your family, friends, students, or community members and challenge each other to answer questions or complete tasks related to Black history. You can also use online resources or apps to find games or trivia questions that suit your interests and difficulty level. Some examples are:

• A game or trivia that quizzes you on the names and accomplishments of famous Black people in history.
• A game or trivia that asks you to identify the symbols and meanings of the colors and elements of the Pan-African flag.
• A game or trivia that requires you to match the lyrics and artists of songs that express Black pride and protest.

9. Attend a virtual or live event about Black History

Attending a virtual or live event is a way to connect with others interested in learning and celebrating Black history. You can find online or in-person events that offer various opportunities to engage with Black history, such as lectures, workshops, panels, performances, festivals, or exhibitions. You can also participate in discussions, ask questions, share feedback, or network with others who share your passion for Black history. Some examples are:

• A virtual or live event that features a guest speaker who is an expert or leader in a field related to Black history.
• A virtual or live event that offers a workshop or tutorial on how to do something related to Black cultures, such as cooking, dancing, braiding, or quilting.
• A virtual or live event that showcases a performance or exhibition of Black art, music, literature, theater, or film.

10. Donate to a cause or organization related to Black History

Donating to a cause or organization is a way to support and contribute to the ongoing work and efforts of people advancing and preserving Black history. You can research and find causes or organizations that align with your values and interests and donate money, time, skills, resources, or goods to help them achieve their goals and missions. You can also spread awareness and encourage others to support these causes or organizations. Some examples are:

• A cause or organization that advocates for racial justice and equity for Black people in education, health care, criminal justice, voting rights, economic opportunity, environmental justice, etc.
• A cause or organization that provides scholarships, mentorship, training, networking, or resources for Black students, professionals, entrepreneurs, artists, etc.
• A cause or organization that preserves and promotes Black history and culture through research, education, outreach, media production,

4 Prominent Figures in Black History

Black history is rich with stories of remarkable individuals who contributed significantly to the world in various fields such as science, arts, politics, sports, and more. In this blog post, we will briefly introduce four prominent figures in black history who inspire us with their achievements and legacy.

• Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr. was a civil rights leader and a Nobel Peace Prize laureate who advocated for nonviolent resistance against racial discrimination and segregation in the United States. He is best known for his “I Have a Dream” speech delivered at the 1963 March on Washington, where he called for an end to racism and a vision of harmony among all people. He was assassinated in 1968 at the age of 39.

• Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela was an anti-apartheid activist and the first democratically elected president of South Africa. He spent 27 years in prison for his involvement in the armed struggle against the racist regime. He was released in 1990 and became the leader of the African National Congress, the main political party of the black majority. He negotiated a peaceful transition to democracy and reconciliation with the white minority. He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993 and was president from 1994 to 1999.

• Barack Obama

Barack Obama was the 44th president of the United States and the first African American to hold the office. He served from 2009 to 2017 and implemented several policies to address the economic crisis, health care reform, climate change, immigration, foreign relations, and civil rights. He also ended the Iraq War and ordered the operation that killed Osama bin Laden. He won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009 for his efforts to strengthen international cooperation.

• Oprah Winfrey

Oprah Winfrey is a media mogul, philanthropist, and cultural influencer who rose from poverty to become one of the most powerful women in the world. She is best known for hosting “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” which ran for 25 years and reached millions of viewers across the globe. She founded her production company, magazine, network, book club, and foundation. She has championed education, empowerment, and social justice for women and children.

Bottom Line

As you plan your Black History Month activities, remember that Peachy Essay Writing Services is here to support your educational journey. Whether you need assistance conducting research, developing engaging presentations, or writing impactful essays on Black history topics, their team of skilled writers and researchers is dedicated to providing high-quality academic support.

Take the next step and visit Peachy Essay Writing Services to access their services that can further enrich your Black History Month experience. Let them assist you in crafting compelling narratives, analyzing historical events, and exploring the complexities of African American history with depth and precision.